Pulse Biosciences Appoints Paul LaViolette as CEO
Pulse Biosciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: PLSE), a leader in bioelectric medicine utilizing its cutting-edge Nanosecond Pulsed Field Ablation™ (nano-PFA™) technology, today announces the appointment of Paul A. LaViolette, the current Co-Chairman of the Board, as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This appointment is a critical step as the company aims to accelerate the development of its proprietary technologies and strengthen its leadership team.
“We are thrilled to appoint Paul as our new CEO,” said Robert W. Duggan, Co-Chairman of the Board of Pulse Biosciences. “Having worked closely with Paul, we’ve established a strong working relationship, and our visions for Pulse’s future are closely aligned. His proven track record in medical technology and experience scaling global franchises across clinical specialties will be invaluable as we continue to advance our innovative technologies. We are confident that Paul’s leadership will be pivotal in taking the company forward,” he added.
Paul LaViolette’s Leadership Expertise
LaViolette brings decades of experience to Pulse Biosciences, not only as an executive at top healthcare corporations but also as a venture investor and board member for various medical technology startups. Before joining Pulse, LaViolette had an extensive career in leadership roles at Boston Scientific Corporation for 15 years, including Chief Operating Officer, Group President of Cardiovascular, and President of International Operations. He also held senior leadership positions at CR Bard and Kendall (now part of Medtronic).
As a Managing Partner at SV Health Investors, LaViolette made significant investments in medical technology and continues to serve on several boards of portfolio companies. He also serves on the Board of Directors at Edwards Lifesciences and chairs the Innovation Advisory Board at Mass General Brigham.
Reflecting on his appointment, LaViolette expressed enthusiasm about Pulse Biosciences’ future: “I believe nano-PFA is a breakthrough in medical technology with immense potential to transform healthcare. I am excited to take on the role of CEO and lead Pulse into a new era of growth and innovation. The company’s cutting-edge technology, committed team, and diverse pipeline of therapies are what drew me to this role.”
Advancing Nano-PFA Technology
Under LaViolette’s leadership, Pulse Biosciences continues to make strides in developing its nano-PFA technology. The company is currently conducting first-in-human feasibility studies in Europe for its nano-PFA Cardiac Surgical System and nano-PFA 360° Cardiac Catheter. Additionally, Pulse is conducting a pilot program with its FDA-cleared nsPFA Percutaneous Electrode Systems at select U.S. sites.
Pulse is also preparing for key presentations at upcoming healthcare conferences. The company will showcase its nano-PFA technology and the 360° Catheter at the 43rd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco on January 15, 2025. The technology will also be featured in a late-breaking science session and live case transmission at the 30th Annual AF Symposium 2025 in Boston from January 16-18, 2025.
Inducement Grants for New Employees
In addition to LaViolette’s appointment, Pulse Biosciences also announces the appointment of new employees through the grant of inducement stock options. The company has granted 138,800 options to 11 new hires as part of its effort to attract and retain top talent. These stock options have a ten-year term, with an exercise price of $18.55 per share, and will vest over four years.
Notably, one new employee, a Vice President, will receive 65,000 stock options, with 50% vesting over four years and the remaining 50% contingent on achieving market capitalization milestones ranging from $1 billion to $3 billion. The inducement grants were approved by Pulse’s Compensation Committee and are in accordance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4).
About Pulse Biosciences
Pulse Biosciences is a pioneering bioelectric medicine company focused on innovating healthcare solutions that improve patients’ quality of life. The company’s proprietary CellFX® nsPFA™ technology delivers nanosecond pulses of electrical energy to non-thermally ablate cells while sparing adjacent tissues. Company is developing this technology for various applications, including the treatment of atrial fibrillation, with the potential for a significant impact on healthcare globally.
This company is headquartered in Miami, Florida, with an office in Hayward, California. The company’s CellFX® technology, Nano-Pulse Stimulation (NPS), and related trademarks are registered or pending in the United States and other countries.
With the appointment of Paul LaViolette as CEO, company is poised to continue its groundbreaking work and contribute to the future of healthcare through innovative technology, strategic leadership, and an expanding pipeline of therapies.
